So you’ve been wearing compression socks for running because of the hype, and you think it’s the trend for this outdoor activity. But did you even ask, are compression socks good for running?
Compression running socks are non-medical grade support socks. This means that it is available over the counter without the need for a doctor’s prescription. Athletes wear these types of socks to help their muscles with post-recovery. However, you can maximize this compression gear’s benefits even while you are running.
1. A Brief Explanation of Leg Veins
The circulatory system carries the blood all around the body, flowing to and fro the heart. Veins are like the “track system” where blood flows and supplies certain nutrients, oxygen, and hormones throughout the body.
The circulatory system carries the blood all around the body, flowing to and fro the heart. Veins are like the “track system” where blood flows and supplies certain nutrients, oxygen, and hormones throughout the body.
There are different types of veins in our legs alone. Every single vein differs function from another.
2. What is the Purpose of Compression Socks for Running
Muscles help to move the blood through the veins by contracting. As it squeezes onto the veins, it pushes the blood back to the heart.
For those individuals who have poor circulation, compression socks help by mimicking the function of the muscles. Although this is an outerwear and far from being a surgical procedure, it can still serve its purpose.
Here lies the question, “should I wear compression socks while running, and what do I benefit from it?” There are several things you may want to consider while running, especially during the cold months. Wearing compression gears such as compression arm sleeves and socks will really help the muscles during this activity.
Here are some of the benefits of compression socks
Wearing compression socks for running purposes is ideal because it works against the force of gravity. The compression at the lower extremities helps the heart not pump blood as hard as it would. From the plantar fascia, it decreases the oscillation at the thigh even up to the abdomen.
3. Kinds of Compression Socks for Running Purposes
In choosing your running gear, you still need to contemplate the factors you want and need before buying. For compression socks, there are two kinds that you can choose from:
Graduated compression socks are more restricted around the ankles and loosen a bit at the uppermost part. It is named graduated since the degree of compression varies from point to point. As it goes higher, the pressure has less and less constriction.
Meanwhile, controlled compression socks offer a more relaxed fit than graduated compression, which are also easier to wear.
Although according to research, in comparison, there is no significant reduction of muscle fatigue even when using graduated compression socks. It is really up to the user which compression and tightness are preferred.
4. Why Do RUnners Wear Compression Socks?
Compression socks for running are a relatively new product for this sport. Further studies are needed to establish its functionality to the user firmly. Nonetheless, research gave a positive indication that it is ideal for a runner to use compression gears. Here are some of the results:
Significantly increased cardio threshold. (the body’s ability for proper oxygen utilization during a long-distance run). Increasing your cardio threshold boosts the speed and potentially increases the distance in your run.
In conclusion, wearing compression socks will benefit you more whenever you take a run. It helps in your movement, strength, muscle recovery, and risk of injury. So, if you are having second thoughts, you can always test it for yourself and see the results it will have on you.
Unisex
8-15 mmHg